Hiking on the Iselergrat: The Smugglers' Trail in Oberjoch

Hiking on the Iselergrat: The Smugglers' Trail in Oberjoch

Oberjoch in the Allgäu Alps is a paradise for hikers – and one of the most beautiful tours here is definitely the Iselergrat along the Smugglers' Trail. Who would have thought that hiking in Germany could be so beautiful? This route combines breathtaking views with exciting history and a bit of adventure.

Tour Facts

  • Starting point: Iselerbahn mountain station in Oberjoch
  • Length: approx. 7.6 km (circular route)
  • Duration: approx. 3-4 hours (depending on breaks)
  • Elevation gain: approx. 614 meters
  • Difficulty: Medium
Schmuggler weg in Österreich 

The route

The chairlift (free cable car ticket - often available in summer in combination with the guest card from the campsite or hotel) takes you comfortably up to the top. From the mountain station, the trail leads over the ridge along the German-Austrian border – this was actually a place where smuggling once took place! Small information panels tell of the smuggling era and make the hike exciting for children too.

The trail is well-maintained, but narrow in places, only 50-100 cm wide, and somewhat rocky. Surefootedness is required. You'll be rewarded with magnificent views over the Allgäu region and as far as the Tyrolean mountains.

After the ridge, the trail descends to the forest on the Austrian side. The trail then leads you back to the mountain station, where you can stop for a bite to eat or take a dip in the lake.

Schmuggler weg in Österreich Schmuggler weg in Österreich

Summer tip: Cooling off and camping

After the hike, the small natural lake at the "Ochsenalpe" restaurant invites you to cool off—perfect for soothing tired feet. Those who want to stay longer can stay overnight at the "Camping Bergheimat" campsite, which offers a free cable car ticket. From there, everything is within walking distance.

Wandern am Iselergrat Wandern am Iselergrat

My personal tips

  • Start early: The ridge gets crowded quickly, especially on weekends, and there are few shade options, so it's best not to be standing in the middle of the ridge at 12 noon.

     

  • Photo spot: The ridge offers magnificent views – especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

     

  • Check the weather: If it's foggy or rainy, it's better to choose an alternative route, as the ridge can be slippery; it's really not very wide in some places. Better safe than sorry.

     

  • Pack a snack and a drink: There are huts, but a snack on the ridge with a view is priceless. There are even picnic tables available at the top.

     

  • Come in June: Everything's in bloom, and there are lots of butterflies.

Wandern am Iselergrat Wandern am Iselergrat Wandern am Iselergrat

Are you ready to follow in the footsteps of the smugglers? Pack your hiking boots and don't forget the sunscreen – this tour is definitely worth it! Who would have thought a German hike could be so beautiful? Oh yes, it's also in Austria.

Happy hiking, Xenia!

 

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